Last checked November 2026
Filing an income tax return with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) puts you on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL). Being a filer generally means lower withholding tax on banking, property and vehicle transactions. Salaried people, business owners and anyone above the taxable income limit should file every year.
What to bring
- CNIC
- Salary certificate or business income records
- Bank statements and profit certificates
- Withholding tax certificates (e.g. from bank, mobile, utility bills)
- Details of assets and liabilities for the wealth statement
Take originals plus photocopies. Offices may ask for extra documents.
Your route
- 1
Register on FBR's IRIS portal with your CNIC to get an NTN.
- 2
Collect salary certificates, bank statements and withholding tax records.
- 3
Complete and submit the return and wealth statement before the deadline.
- 4
Check your status on the Active Taxpayer List.
Tips & common mistakes
- Register on IRIS early. Your CNIC becomes your NTN for individuals.
- Collect withholding tax certificates before you start, because they reduce what you owe.
- Don't miss the annual deadline. Late filing can affect your ATL status.
- If you have a dispute with FBR, the Federal Tax Ombudsman handles complaints free of charge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Active Taxpayer List?+
It's FBR's list of people who have filed their return. You can check your status on FBR's website.
I'm a student with no income. Do I need to file?+
Generally not, unless your income or assets cross the limits in the tax law. Check FBR's guidance for your situation.
Fees, documents and timelines change, so Raasta deliberately doesn't quote fees. Confirm current requirements on the official website before you apply. Spotted something out of date?